[gingercloverbramble]

We got two orphaned tup lambs from a neighbouring farmer last Thursday.  They were only 2 or 3 days old.  They are absolutely adorable and we are all enjoying bottle feeding them! The farmer has given us the option to hand rear them then give them back or we can keep them as pets.  Am thinking we will probably be keeping them!!  (Think that was always my 9 year old son's intention anyway!)
Can anyone advise of what paperwork I should be dealing with and tagging etc?  Am used to the movement records etc as we already keep pigs.  Also..any advice on when to mark them?
Obviously they are just on bottles of Lamlac at the moment - do I start to feed pellets from about 4 weeks?  Am also having difficulty in getting the hardened on poop of their tales and around their bottoms - any technique tips?
Many thanks!

[supplies for smallholders]

hi,

1) Speak to DEFRA to get a flock number against your holding number.

2) Get the farmer to tag them - they MUST be tagged from the holding of birth. If you intend keeping them over 12 months of age they MUST have electronic tags.

3) Offer lamb creep feed from 2 weeks of age.

4) soak in warm soapy water to soften then gently pull the poo away. If they get constipated or bunged up use 2 - 4 ml of warm soapy water as an enema from a syringe (without a needle fitted!)

Thanks

Gareth
www.suppliesforsmallholders.co.uk

[shetlandpaul]

sneaky farmer. hoping you give them back after you hand raised them.

[gingercloverbramble]

Thank you very much for the help and advice.
The farmer is a neighbour so shouldn't be too many problems about getting them tagged.
Thanks again - much appreciated.